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How Do Motion Detectors Work In Bakersfield?

July 29, 2023
Motion detector protecting interior of home

You most likely have a reasonable understanding of what motion detectors do simply based on their name. Indeed, they detect activity, but how specifically do they work? Take a minute to explore the technology that drives them and the different kinds of devices you might find. You’ll achieve a clearer appreciation of how they work and how you are able to incorporate them into your contemporary smart home.

 


What is the technology behind motion detectors?

Detecting activity can be performed in a number of distinct ways, but motion detectors are ordinarily placed into either of these two categories - active or passive.

● Active motion detectors: These sensors are considered active, as they regularly send out signals like microwaves and then assess the time of response. Activity is indicated when the response time changes. Even though microwave sensors are most common, you’ll also find active motion detectors that use sound waves or infrared light.

● Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors: Usually seen within home security applications, PIR motion detectors work by noticing changes in the surrounding temperature. ​​Essentially, the instrument learns what the usual temperature is expected to be within a designated area. If there are abrupt heat increases, like a trespasser skulking through the room, the sensor takes notice and activates your alarm system. Since they don’t actively emit signals, passive detectors generally consume less power and are more cost-effective to run.

In addition to passive and active, you might encounter hybrid devices that employ multiple technologies. These can help reduce false alarms, as every sensor must be tripped before the warning siren sounds. Additional alternatives include vibration motion detectors and tomographic sensors that are commonly used in bigger commercial locations.

Ways to use Bakersfield motion detectors

The chief purpose of motion detectors is to identify activity within a given area, typically to a distance of 50 feet away. You’ll usually find them included in outside floodlights or as independent devices within the interior of your property. When motion is detected, they’ll trigger your alarm and alert your dedicated monitoring staff.

But modern motion detectors are more functional than at any time before. As a matter of fact, they are able to communicate directly with other smart equipment. For example, they can trigger your connected smart lights to illuminate or your video camera to record if movement is noticed. They might even alert your smart thermostat to change the temperature.

Get automatic updates and adjust settings for furry friends

Another great perk of contemporary motion detectors is that you’ll have alerts dispatched to your cell phone every time the device is tripped. If you have animals, you can even prevent false alarms by adjusting settings to accommodate the size of your furry family members.

Start Designing Your Vivint Smart Home With Motion Detectors in Bakersfield

Now that you have a deeper understanding of how motion detectors work in Bakersfield, it’s a good time to integrate them into your modern smart home. Vivint’s motion detectors oversee wide areas, give you wide-angle detection, and last for many years without needing a change of battery. They’ll also work in harmony with your other home automation tools. Are you excited to get started? Dial (661) 732-2557 to talk to a skilled Vivint specialist today.